Graduate School

Cell and Molecular Biology Ph.D. Program

About the Cell and Molecular Biology Program

The Graduate Program in Cell and Molecular Biology provides training opportunities for students interested in studying cellular functions ranging from molecular mechanisms to functional behavior. The Program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach to research, which covers a variety of areas, including but not limited to:

Cell biology

Molecular biology

Pharmacology

Physiology

Systems biology

Bioinformatics and biomathematics

Advanced courses, journal clubs, symposia, works-in-progress seminars, and intensive training in the development of independent research projects prepare students for completion of the Ph.D. degree and future success in their career of choice. This is facilitated by diverse, active, and collaborative faculty committed to mentoring the next generation of top-notch scientists.

Potential students should apply to the interdisciplinary umbrella program within the Division of Basic Science. First-year students complete a core curriculum that includes a core course, two or three laboratory rotations, and training in grantsmanship and the responsible conduct of research. Students interested in joining the program are required to take the Cells thread of the core course during their first semester. Students who perform satisfactorily in the core course are qualified to enter the Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program. The Program also administers a specialty curriculum in pharmacological sciences that is open to students from all of the basic science graduate programs.

Program Chair

Graduate School: Ph.D., Cornell University, 1977Postdoctoral Training: University of Virginia School of Medicine

“Our goal in the Cell and Molecular Biology program is to train the next generation of scientists as leaders in our society by preparing them to conduct high impact research, teach at any educational level, and communicate effectively with colleagues and non-scientists.”

Online Application

Student Profile

“I joined the Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program because it promotes the development of all the components required to be a successful scientist, from grant writing to detailed experimental design. This is facilitated by faculty that are driven by determination to help students succeed.”